Mindful Happiness Travel

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7 Nights 8 Days Happiness Holiday Tour Itinerary

This comprehensive itinerary lets you experience Bhutan’s cultural treasures, natural wonders, and spiritual highlights across Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey/Phobjikha, and more. It blends sightseeing, gentle hikes, and authentic encounters for a memorable journey through the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.”

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu

  • Arrive at Paro International Airport.
  • Meet your guide and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital (approx. 1.5 hours).
  • En route, stop at Tachog Lhakhang Iron Bridge.
  • In Thimphu: Visit the National Memorial Chorten and stroll around the city center.
  • Overnight in Thimphu

Day 2: Thimphu Sightseeing

  • Explore Buddha Dordenma (giant Buddha statue) and Takin Sanctuary (see Bhutan’s national animal).
  • Visit the Folk Heritage Museum, National Textile Museum, and School of Arts & Crafts.
  • Discover Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the government.
  • Evening walk in the local market.
  • Overnight in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu to Gangtey/Phobjikha Valley

  • Scenic drive via Dochula Pass (3,100m) with panoramic Himalayan views and 108 chortens.
  • Descend into the glacial Phobjikha Valley, famous for black-necked cranes (in season).
  • Visit Gangtey Monastery and explore the valley.
  • Overnight in Gangtey/Phobjikha.

Day 4: Gangtey to Punakha

  • Morning nature walk in Phobjikha Valley.
  • Drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital.
  • Visit Punakha Dzong, considered the country’s most beautiful fortress, at the confluence of two rivers.
  • Stroll across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan.
  • Overnight in Punakha.

Day 5: Punakha Exploration

  • Optional hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for panoramic valley views.
  • Visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility).
  • Explore rural villages or enjoy a riverside picnic.
  • Overnight in Punakha

Day 6: Punakha to Paro

  • Drive back to Paro, stopping at scenic spots along the way.
  • In Paro: Visit Rinpung Dzong and Ta Dzong (National Museum).
  • Explore Paro town and handicraft shops.
  • Overnight in Paro

Day 7: Paro – Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)

  • Early breakfast, then drive to the base of Taktsang Monastery.
  • Hike (approx. 5-6 hours round-trip) to the iconic Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliffside.
  • Lunch at the viewpoint cafeteria.
  • Optional visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.
  • Evening at leisure or enjoy a hot stone bath.
  • Overnight in Paro

Day 8: Departure from Paro

  • Breakfast at hotel.
  • Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey

Highlights:

  • Thimphu: Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, local markets
  • Gangtey/Phobjikha: Glacial valley, Gangtey Monastery, black-necked cranes (seasonal)
  • Punakha: Dochula Pass, Punakha Dzong, Khamsum Yulley Chorten, Chimi Lhakhang
  • Paro: Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Kyichu Lhakhang

This itinerary offers a balanced mix of Bhutan’s cultural, natural, and spiritual highlights, ensuring a rewarding and unforgettable 8-day holiday

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